What Are the Main Concerns Raised at the Congress Conclave on Social Justice and Constitutional Values?
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Synopsis
The All India Congress Committee's recent conclave drew significant attention by addressing pressing issues regarding the current government's impact on India's Constitution. With a focus on social justice and federalism, the event showcased critical discussions on protecting democratic values.
Key Takeaways
- Concerns about constitutional integrity
- Emphasis on social justice and federalism
- Warning against ideological shifts
- Commitment to democratic accountability
- Engagement of diverse voices in discussions
New Delhi, Aug 2 (NationPress) The All India Congress Committee's National Conclave titled "Constitutional Challenges: Perspectives & Pathways" took place on Saturday, highlighting alarming issues regarding what it termed as actions by the current BJP-led NDA government that may threaten India's constitutional integrity.
The gathering brought together legal experts, lawmakers, and representatives from civil society to discuss the dangers facing democratic institutions.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge proclaimed that the Constitution is under attack, declaring, "What we observe today is dictatorship masquerading as democracy."
He credited Rahul Gandhi's focus on constitutional preservation for preventing the BJP from achieving its goal of winning 400 seats in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
"The populace denied them even a simple majority," Kharge remarked, adding that the BJP's objective to eliminate 'Secular' and 'Socialist' from the 'Preamble' serves as a blatant ideological message.
Congress Parliamentary Party President Sonia Gandhi, through a message delivered by senior party figure Salman Khurshid, emphasized the Congress' crucial role in constructing India's constitutional framework.
She accused the BJP-RSS of orchestrating an "ideological coup," replacing democratic pluralism with a corporate theocracy.
"Their predecessors idolized Manusmriti and dismissed the tricolor," she warned, stressing that the current administration aims to dismantle the foundations of equal citizenship.
Senior Congress figure Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who chaired the conclave, referred to the Constitution as "the living, beating heart of our democracy". He asserted that constitutional principles—Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity—were "gasping for air". The conclave hosted five thematic sessions focusing on federalism, judicial independence, social justice, and institutional accountability.
Chief Ministers from Karnataka, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh participated alongside 41 distinguished speakers, which included retired judges, legal scholars, and advocates for human rights.
The Congress reaffirmed its dedication to upholding constitutional morality and democratic accountability.
"We were not intimidated by the British Empire—why should we fear the BJP?" Rahul Gandhi stated, holding the Constitution aloft.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of the Congress conclave in addressing vital constitutional concerns. The discourse surrounding social justice and federalism is crucial for maintaining the integrity of our democracy. The engagement of diverse voices—from legal experts to civil society—highlights the shared commitment to uphold democratic values. It’s essential that we monitor these developments closely to ensure accountability and transparency.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of the Congress conclave?
The main focus was on addressing constitutional challenges, emphasizing social justice, federalism, and the safeguarding of democratic values.
Who were the key speakers at the conclave?
Key speakers included Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and other prominent legal experts and civil society leaders.
What concerns did the Congress leaders express?
Congress leaders expressed concerns about potential threats to the Constitution posed by the current BJP-led government.
How did Rahul Gandhi contribute to the discussions?
Rahul Gandhi emphasized the need to protect the Constitution and criticized the BJP's attempts to alter its foundational values.
What was the significance of this conclave?
The conclave served as a platform to unite voices against the perceived erosion of democracy and to advocate for constitutional integrity.
